Hawaii Becomes a US Territory
On June 14, 1900, Hawaii became a US territory and began using US stamps for its mail. Prior to that, Hawaii had been issuing its own stamps for nearly 50 years.
Postal History
North American Wildlife Sheet
On June 13, 1987, the North American Wildlife sheet became the third US 50-stamp se-tenant. It was also the third stamp issue with a First Day ceremony outside of the US, in Canada.
Owney the Postal Dog
On June 11, 1897, the US Railway Mail Service mascot, Owney the Postal Dog, died in Toledo, Ohio. He rode the rails with the mail for nearly 10 years and even took steamships to Europe and Asia, earning international fame!
Flora and Fauna Series
On June 1, 1990, the USPS issued the first stamp in the Flora and Fauna Series, which was born from plans for a Priority Mail stamp in 1987.
American Design Series
On May 31, 2002, the USPS issued the first stamp in the American Design Series. The low-denomination stamps feature beautiful objects created by American designers showcasing the country’s various regions, cultures, and history.
Opening of INTERPHIL ’76
On May 29, 1976, the Seventh US International Philatelic Exhibition (INTERPHIL) opened to the public. Celebrating the American Bicentennial, the show had more than 75,000 visitors.
World Stamp Show 2016
On May 28, 2016, the doors opened on America’s 11th International Stamp Exhibition, World Stamp Show 2016. It marked the show’s return to New York after 60 years.
Discovery of the Inverted Jenny
On May 14, 1918, stamp collector William Robey discovered the rare Inverted Jenny error sheet. One of the most famous US stamp errors, he found the only known sheet to reach public hands.
Start of Scenic American Landscapes Series
On May 12, 1999, the USPS introduced a new series of Airmail stamps – the Scenic American Landscapes. These were the final Airmail stamps. issued through 2012.